Building safety concerns update - 608 7 Street SW

The City’s Safety Response Unit (SRU), from Planning Development & Assessment, designated to act in response to construction site or building safety incidences, remains on scene with the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) at 608 7 Street SW investigating the status of compromised building façade on the east side of the building.

The onsite investigation continues but suggests the brick bowing on the third and fourth floors was caused by a lack of lateral support on those floors. Engineers contracted by The City estimate the brick wall had bowed at minimum 300mm earlier this morning.

Public safety remains The City’s top priority as the site and surround businesses remain evacuated until further notice. Re-occupancy of the building and some local business in the area will not be permitted by SRU and CFD until the unsafe condition can be corrected to The City’s full satisfaction.

Under the advisement of The City, the property owner has engaged a professional engineering firm to determine next steps to stabilize, remediate or remove the unsafe condition.

The City appreciates and thanks local business owners and Calgarians for their patience during the investigation.